Black bean stew is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or whenever you crave something nourishing and flavorful. This vegan black bean stew recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients, bold spices, and a rich, savory broth that will satisfy both vegans and meat-eaters alike.
It’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy black beans, this stew will quickly become a favorite. Its robust flavors and satisfying texture make it ideal for meal prep or a family dinner.
Plus, it’s loaded with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious choice as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan black bean stew is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The beans provide a creamy base, while fresh vegetables add crunch and color.
The use of smoked paprika and cumin infuses the stew with a warm, earthy aroma that’s irresistible.
It’s also incredibly flexible—you can add more veggies like kale or bell peppers, swap out spices for different regional twists, or serve it over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread. The recipe comes together quickly and can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Lastly, it’s a healthy, filling meal that supports a plant-based lifestyle without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime (optional, for brightness)
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener (if using canned beans and tomatoes)
- Colander (if rinsing canned beans)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables. Dice the onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat the olive oil. Place your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and spices. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the bell pepper and tomatoes. Toss in the diced red bell pepper and canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add beans. Add the vegetable broth and the cooked or canned black beans to the pot. Toss in the bay leaf.
- Simmer the stew. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to deepen and the stew to thicken.
- Adjust seasoning and finish. Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels as needed. Stir in the fresh lime juice if you like a bright, tangy finish.
- Serve and garnish. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve warm with your choice of sides.
Tips & Variations
For a creamier texture, try blending a portion of the stew and then stirring it back in.
- Use dried beans: If you prefer dried black beans, soak them overnight and cook them before starting the stew for even better texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetable swaps: Kale, spinach, or zucchini make great additions tossed in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Make it smoky: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked salt if you want an even deeper smoky taste.
- Serve it over grains: Black bean stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even your favorite vegan cornbread.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 12g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 600mg (varies with broth) |
| Iron | 3mg |
Serving Suggestions
This black bean stew is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it over steamed brown rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful broth.
If you want to keep things light, serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed greens like kale or collard greens. For a more indulgent meal, try pairing the stew with warm, crusty bread or your favorite vegan cornbread to mop up every last drop.
Looking for more comforting soups and stews? Check out this Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe for another delicious plant-based option.
Conclusion
This vegan black bean stew is a delicious, satisfying, and healthy meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based dish full of flavor. With its rich broth, tender vegetables, and hearty black beans, it’s an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
The recipe is easy to adapt and customize with your favorite spices or vegetables, making it a versatile base for countless variations. Plus, it delivers great nutrition, keeping you full and energized.
Try this black bean stew with some of your favorite sides and enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal that everyone will love.
For more recipes that complement this stew, you might also enjoy the Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe or treat yourself to a sweet finish with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.
📖 Recipe Card: Black Bean Stew Recipe Vegan
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan black bean stew packed with spices and vegetables. Perfect for a nutritious and comforting meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in bell pepper and carrots, cook for 5 minutes.
- Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 50 g
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